The Detroit Tigers and starting pitcher Max Scherzer are not currently engaging in contract extension talks, reports Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.
Max Scherzer and Tigers not discussing an extension
Scherzer has been talked about as a possible trade candidate if he does not sign a new deal.
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Leyland’s Legacy
Join our Tigers community Bless You Boys as they honor Jim Leyland's career. Scherzer, 29, has been the subject of heavy trade rumors this offseason as the Tigers are reportedly looking to shed the possible $14 million he is expected to receive in arbitration.
Scherzer is currently the epitome of “sell high”. If Detroit waits until the season starts, the return on a trade may diminish greatly.
If the team does not believe they can sign Scherzer to an agreement, a trade makes the most sense. If he leaves in free agency, the Tigers would receive just a sandwich pick in the 2015 draft assuming they make him a qualifying offer. The Tigers need to be wary of their financials with Miguel Cabrera needing an extension soon.
Scherzer had a true breakout season in 2013, posting a 2.90 ERA and league-leading 0.97 WHIP to go with 240 strikeouts in 214⅓ innings pitched. Along with Yu Darvish and Hisashi Iwakuma, Scherzer is a finalist for the 2013 AL Cy Young award.
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